6 Simple Ways to Help You Lower Your Electricity Bill
Keep your energy bills five by five with these 6 tips and tricks As prices continual to rise you maybe looking for ways to save money. One of the biggest ticket items is likely your electricity bill. Though it may seem like a fixed expense you can do little about, following these six simple practices can help lower your electric bill. 6 Simple energy-saving practices to reduce your electric bill 1. Replace Outdated Equipment If you have older equipment, upgrading could save you energy. Consider replacing appliances with Energy Star models. If it’s time to replace a desktop computer, a laptop paired with a large monitor and Bluetooth or wired keyboard might be a better option. Laptops, according to the EPA, are 2.5 to 3 times more efficient than desktop computers. Additionally, many older homes are not designed to carry the electrical load require and need additional circuits installed or an electrical panel upgrade for optimal efficiency and safety. To ensure the electrical current is moving safely throughout your home, schedule an inspection with a professional electrician. 2. Switch to LED Bulbs Switching to a LED (light emitting diode) lighting system can reduce your energy costs considerably. LED lights use up to 90% less energy than traditional bulbs and produce significantly more light. For instance, a 60-watt incandescent bulb produces 800 lumens. To produce that amount of visible light with incandescent lighting, you would need a 60-watt bulb. LEDs also have the added benefits of attracting fewer insects and pests, and since they run cooler, they also reduce fire risks. 3. Add Motion Sensors, Timers and/or Dimmers to Lights Installing motion sensors or timers in rooms, doorways, and outside areas can help many homeowners conserve energy. Similarly, dimmer switches provide the flexibility of using less energy for illumination at different times of the day or for different tasks or situations. You will need to make sure to choose a compatible dimmer for the type of bulb you’re using. Most dimmer switches are compatible with modern halogen light bulbs. 4. Schedule regular HVAC maintenance Perhaps one of the biggest opportunities to save on your electricity bill is to keep the biggest user of your electricity, your HVAC system, running at peak efficiency. Scheduling regular maintenance will increase its efficiency and save you money, not only on your electricity, but on repair costs. Routine inspections and servicing, help ensure smaller HVAC problems are detected before they grow into bigger, more costly ones. 5. Add Ceiling Fans to Compliment the A/C Ceiling fans are a perfect compliment to your air conditioning and should be used in tandem for the most benefit. Keeping the air circulating better will decrease the load on your AC unit as it tries to cool the entire room. If you already have fans, check to see if they have an Energy Star rating, as these can improve your energy efficiency by 40% compared to non-rated models. 6. Power Down The best energy savings come into play when we’re simply not using it. Turning off shop and office equipment overnight and unplugging seldom-used equipment are some of the simplest and most efficient ways to conserve energy. Even when equipment is powered down, it’s still drawing a small amount of current while it’s plugged in. To determine where the most improvement can be made in your business, contact your utility or an energy conservation consultant for an energy audit. When it comes to updating lighting and equipment, the experts at Schafer Electric are here to serve you. Our professional electricians and HVAC techs can ensure that your electrical and HVAC systems are working properly and at peak efficiency. We also specialize in security and safety lighting installation and maintenance for your home and commercial spaces. If you are in need of any HVAC or electrical services, Click HERE and fill out the form below or ARK electric Heating and Cooling today.
Ensure that your family stays warm this winter with a furnace you can rely on
Ensure that your family stays warm this winter with a furnace you can rely on The weather is cooling down and homeowners are preparing for fun fall activities like Halloween, Thanksgiving, fall festivals, and more. However, one thing that you might have neglected in all this excitement is your HVAC system. When is the last time that you turned on your furnace to make sure that it’s working properly? Having a reliable way to stay warm at home will become especially important as the temperature start to drop. One way to gain this peace of mind is to ensure that your furnace is working properly. Read three ways that pre-season furnace maintenance will save you money and frustration in Denver, CO, and the surrounding areas. Increase Energy Efficiency and Lower Bills To run efficiently, your furnace needs regular maintenance. A furnace that receives regular tune-ups will have improved energy efficiency, reducing your energy consumption and saving you money. In addition, your heat accounts for 25% of your energy costs on average, so an efficient furnace can have a big impact on reducing your monthly bills. When your furnace sits unused for some time, like during the summer, it collects contaminants such as dirt and dust that can curb its efficiency when you use it again. HVAC maintenance service right before the cold weather hits should keep your unit in prime condition, preventing problems that could make your system work harder, increase your monthly bills, or decrease the overall energy efficiency of your home. Maintain Your Warranty Did you know that most furnace warranties require regular maintenance? If you do not get your furnace inspected regularly, the manufacturer might not honor the warranty. Skip the frustration of calling in to fix a failing furnace only to learn that your warranty is void because you forgot to get annual maintenance. Gain peace of mind and avoid the extra costs of an out-of-warranty repair by getting maintenance yearly. Make sure to check your warranty to see what you must do to be covered for part repairs. Prevent Costly Repairs and Improve Lifespan Much like how a car that has had regular tune-ups will outperform one that hasn’t, a well-maintained furnace will last longer than one that has been neglected. Regular heating service and maintenance can allow you to avoid costly repairs. A thorough furnace inspection is a perfect chance to discover and fix any small problems before they grow into a major problem. Ignoring maintenance can also reduce the lifespan of your heating system, leading to an expensive and premature replacement that prevents you from getting your money’s worth. Finally, regular maintenance can prevent emergency breakdowns that cost a fortune to fix. If you get an inspection before the cold weather hits, you shouldn’t have to worry about a furnace crisis later. Don’t put yourself in the situation of needing an emergency repair when it is cold outside, and you need heat. It’s uncomfortable for everyone in your family when the temperature is freezing in your home, and it could likely cost an emergency fee to repair. While all the benefits we have listed are important, the most important thing is that your family stays safe and comfortable at home. Having a reliable furnace will keep your family warm and cozy during the winter months. Are you ready to get a furnace inspection that brings you peace of mind through the winter months? We are here to help you make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient. Click HERE today and schedule your HVAC safety check and fall tune up and we will send out one of our great guys heating cooling and electrical team to get you taken care of.
What are the different types of Electricians?
There are many different types of electrician specialists. The type you hire depends on what type of electrical work you need in your home or office building. Denver electrician specialists can work on anything from electrical repairs and installation to certified maintenance. Discover more about the different types of electricians so you can find the best specialists for your residential or commercial projects. Electrician Specialists A general electrician can assist with most household projects. This includes regular maintenance and repairs, as well as general electrical concerns. However, your project may require specific needs that only an electrical specialist can supply. The following are the most common types of electrical specialists that can assist with a specific project for a home or commercial project. Residential: These specialists are most commonly found working on residential-type projects for homeowners or renters. They can help upgrade home electrical systems, install new interior or exterior systems, and help make repairs when needed. Installation: These types of specialists most commonly help install electrical systems for new residential or commercial builds. They help connect and install wiring for lighting, cooling and heating systems, and security. Maintenance: Electrical maintenance specialists are most commonly found working on rental units or apartments. They perform the necessary maintenance to keep these systems working properly in as timely a manner as possible. They also help inspect and monitor electrical equipment for all types of settings, including industrial and commercial projects. Commercial: These specialists are most commonly found working on commercial-type projects for businesses. They can help improve security systems, perform large-scale electrical repairs, and install electric systems for new buildings. Industrial: These electrical specialists are most commonly found working at industrial sites like factories, mines, or power plants. They use their in-depth knowledge to help improve the function of machinery, manufacturing systems, and industry-specific work. Licensed Electricians Regardless of what type of electrician specialist you need, make sure they have the correct licensure to get the job done safely. There are three types of certification levels that vary in complexity. Apprentice electricians are in the first tier of certifications. They are often required to be supervised on the job since they are completing their training. Each apprentice is required to complete on-the-job and in-class instruction. Apprentice hours are similar to that of a higher education degree and take just as long to complete. Journeyman electricians have completed their apprenticeship hours and are now considered licensed electricians. They are able to work unsupervised and can complete most residential projects. A licensed Denver electrician can help you with your home renovations or electrical repair and maintenance. Master electricians have completed the highest level of electric certifications. They can work on more complex projects in all specialized fields, including more large-scale residential projects. Many master electricians operate their own contracting business or lead less experienced electricians on the job. Not every Denver electrician is right for the job. It’s essential to work with experienced, licensed electricians that can assist with any type of residential projects. Contact ARK Electric for more information on how our skilled electrical technicians can help support your home electrical needs.
5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Electrical Company
A Denver electric company can do more than replace a flickering lightbulb. These licensed professionals easily perform full electrical wiring and remodeling on both commercial and residential projects. Plus, their expertise gives them an edge in the field and ensures that you save time and money. There are a few things to ask an electrical company before hiring one, however. Asking the right questions helps you make an informed decision so that you choose the right electrician for the job. Learn more about the essential duties of an electrician and what questions to ask before you hire. Why You Should Hire an Electrician Fixing an electrical issue isn’t something that everyone can DIY. In fact, “fixing” the problem yourself could cause even greater issues later. According to one NFPA report, the second leading cause of home fires are from electrical malfunction. That’s why it’s essential to hire a professional Denver electrical company for any electric repairs, maintenance, or remodeling. A trained electrician performs many duties for both commercial, industrial, and residential projects. For homeowners, an electric company can help you install or replace the following: Outlets Light fixtures Chandeliers Circuit breakers Electrical panels Lighting for outdoor spaces Top Questions to Ask Before Hiring There are a few key questions to ask an electric company before hiring one. Consider the following five questions before you make a decision. Do you have the proper licensing and insurance? This is an important one! It takes time and dedication to become a licensed electrician. General electricians need a minimum amount of eight thousand hours of training to acquire licensure. Holding a valid license ensures the work is done properly. And every contractor should have proper insurance to cover their and your assets, as well. Does your company hold a business license? An electrician license is one thing. If you’re working with a Denver electric company, they also need a license to operate their business. You can check online databases to make sure the company holds a valid and current license. Do you have your own team or use subcontractors? Some electric companies hire out subcontractors or apprentices to do the work. It’s important that everyone working on the project is properly covered under the company’s insurance. Make sure that the person sent out to perform the job is still knowledgeable and has the proper training. What are your credentials? On-the-job experience is just as important as training. A skilled electrician should not only be trained, but have the success to back it up. Ask for references, awards, or any other proof of the company’s experience. This will help you avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary repairs. Is the work performed protected under warranty? Some companies offer a warranty after the work is completed. This essentially outlines that the work performed is done correctly and no further issues will arise. If issues do occur within the warranty, the electrician will fix them with no cost to you. Asking these questions before hiring a Denver electric company ensures that you’re making the right choice. Contact ARK Electric for more information on how we can help on your next home improvement project.
What Are the Top 5 Services Electricians Provide?
When’s the right time to call an electrician? Any time you’re experiencing an issue with your electrical systems that’s unsafe to handle yourself. Here are a few common reasons why homeowners turn to the professional electricians for help. Installing Lights Unless you like bumbling around in the dark, lighting is a vital part of any home. Electricians are often hired to install lighting in every room throughout a home. You can also call on an electrician to install lighting in hard-to-reach places, such as under your cabinets. The job may involve adding in new fixtures or repairing old ones. Wondering what kind of lighting is best for a room? Or perhaps you’re looking for the most energy efficient option. You can talk to an electrician to explore your options. Installing Fans When the scorching days of summer come around, a ceiling fan can help you keep your cool. These fixtures circulate air throughout your living space, turning your home into a comfortable oasis. However, installing a ceiling fan isn’t a task for a novice. In the worst-case scenario, improper installation can lead to injury. Leave the job to a professional electrician. An electrician can also help you determine what kind of ceiling fan is right for your home. After all, there’s no shortage of ceiling fans to choose from, and different types can produce different results. General Equipment Hook-Up Thinking of buying a hot tub? Installing it will require the knowledge and hands of an experienced electrician. The same is true for other appliances that require complex electrical systems. For example, you may need an expert to install a home security system. Troubleshooting Circuit Breaker Speaking of appliances, your circuit breaker works hard to protect your appliances from damage. So, if you notice your power is regularly tripping, call up an electrician to inspect the problem. A professional can tell you if the problem is due to an appliance, short circuit, or some other cause. Then, they can offer solutions to quickly address the issue. Upgrading Electrical Systems Electricians frequently need to upgrade outdated or troublesome electrical systems. Old wiring may need to be completely replaced. Or perhaps outlets, switches, and panels have stopped working. An electrician can assess the full scope of whatever needs to be upgraded, and then get to work enhancing the systems. Additional Services This isn’t close to an exhaustive list of all the services an electrician can provide. Depending on their level of experience, electricians may take on a variety of other tasks as well. For example, some electricians draw up blueprints for new projects. Are you in need of any of the services listed above? If so, reach out to ARK Electric today. We offer the above Denver electrical services and more. Schedule an appointment with us and we’ll send an electrician to assess your needs and offer project pricing information.
What Should I Look for in an Electrician?
Electrical systems can vary in complexity from home to business—and that isn’t a bad thing. Experts in this field can have a wide range of knowledge. Understanding how they operate and what kind of individual talents that they can offer is a great way to determine what you need when looking for an electrician. In this article, we will explore what to aim for when choosing an electrician. Things to Consider Choosing an electrician is a situation that depends on the individual and what they are looking for. Everyone is a little different, which is why it is a personal decision to determine what will work best for you. When working with tradesmen, you want to maintain a balance between technical skill and personal connection. Check for Expertise Expertise is a key point of concern when determining what will work for your needs. You want an electrician that has a balance of technical expertise and careful communication to determine what will suit your goals for your personal situation. In general, the more expertise that an electrician has, the better. They will always be able to help you with any unique customizations that might be relevant for your space. Consider Licensing Licensing is a key point of concern for electricians. While you might assume that all individuals with electrical expertise have the knowledge and experience to handle any task, this really isn’t true. In reality, different people have worked on different projects. They have solved individual issues, which can determine how well they can help you and your specific situation. Licensing is a great way to ensure that they have the ability to navigate certain concerns in your field, so it is always a good thing to look for. Look for Communication Communication is a key point of concern when working with any individual tradesman. While certain individuals might have specific areas of expertise, the truth is that communication plays a huge role in the overall outcome when working on certain projects. Being able to determine what an individual can bring and what understanding they offer for certain tasks might help you to understand what works best for you and your specific needs in your home or business. You want an electrician that can succeed in their field and clearly understands your needs while communicating key details to you regardless of what you might require. It is always nice to have someone who can bring you knowledge, expertise, and clear communication for the best results. Conclusion Electrical work can seem complicated to the average individual, but that isn’t always the case. In reality, you want someone who can handle your needs and clearly communicate what should be done so you are on the same page. At the end of the day, you want to work with someone who can explain what needs to be done and what is relevant while they work on a task. There is no substitute for knowledge and expertise, and you will be glad to find a trusted partner that can improve your home! If you are looking for a trusted Denver electrician to suit your needs, feel free to contact us directly to get started!
What is an Electrical Company?
One might wonder, what does an electrical contractor do? Some people compare electrical contractors to electricians, but there is a huge difference. For example, the only similarity is the fact that they can both be hired from electrical companies. What is an Electrical Contractor? Electrical contractors are businesses or firms that provide electrical construction work. This is typically related to designing, maintaining, and installing electrical systems. It does not matter what type of electrical system that they work on, just that they work with an electrical system. When it comes to electrical contractors in a Denver Electric Company, the contractors are responsible for making sure that the systems work safely. What Does an Electrical Contractor Do? Electrical contractors do a variety of tasks. Oftentimes they have a specialty. When electrical contractors are hired, the project begins. Then, typically, the electrical contractor will provide input into the idea of the design, or submit a plan. This is essential before construction starts, which makes an electrical contractor an essential part of any construction project. Once the budget and design are approved the contractor will be able to schedule the job and begin. In many cases, the electrical contractor will use electrical software for project management. Electrical Contractor Differ vs an Electrician? Electricians are people who are trained and licensed to perform electrical work. They can choose to work for themselves, but often work for electrical companies. In this case, an electrical contractor might mean the business, but an electrician typically always means an individual. Many electricians will start as apprentices. Jobs and Duties of Electrical Contractors and Electricians An electrical contractor has various duties but typically depends on the job specifically. Project planning: Determining the steps that are required in order to get a permit, and finish a job. Create benchmarks: This is essential for checking on success. Distribute resources: This might include scheduling different aspects of the job and finding solutions to problems. Managing a budget: This is essential to keep the project on its target. Manage relationships Most often electricians will have various responsibilities and duties depending on their position. For example, other responsibilities might include: Voice/Data/Video Electrical Contractors: These responsibilities include offering work that has to do with low-voltage systems, power controls, backup power, wireless networks, fiber optics, telecommunications, and security systems. Line Electrical Contractors: Includes offering outside electrical work that usually includes high-voltage power. They may work with transmission and distribution lines, and work to ensure power goes to homes and buildings. Inside Electrical Contractors: These contractors typically do work on properties. This means that these electricians work on cabling, installation, wiring, repair, and maintenance within buildings.
What types of Services do Electricians Do?
Both residential and commercial properties require the expertise of an electrician at one point or another. After all, these locations wouldn’t have working power if they weren’t expertly wired by an electrician. Electricians don’t just install wiring, however. They can also help fix equipment and machines, install lighting, and direct power to control systems. Learn more about the essential work that Denver electrical services provides and how they can assist your home or workplace. About Electricians The term “electrician” is actually very broad, as there are many different types and categories of electricians. The two main concentrations are ‘inside wiremen’ or ‘outside linemen’. Duties differ for both, but each requires specialized training. Most likely, your local licensed contractor falls under the ‘inside wiremen’ category. These electricians are trained in inside work – wiring buildings, fixing electrical issues, and replacing older systems. An inside wireman electrician can also work on several different types of projects, providing help to both commercial and residential projects. Some can even specialize in project-specific duties for hospitals and government jobs. Residential Services A licensed electrician can assist with many electrical issues at residential properties. Contracted electricians commonly work with the homeowner to discover the underlying issue for electrical outages, flickering lights, circuit breaker issues, and more. If you’re looking to make some home decor upgrades, a skilled electrician can also help you choose the right lighting fixtures. Whatever your needs, be sure to contact a licensed professional who is properly insured. The most common Denver electrical services for your home include: Installing new lighting fixtures Installing or repairing ceiling fans Hooking up spa and hot tub equipment Wiring and installing under-cabinet kitchen or bathroom lighting Basement and Addition wiring and finishing Remodeling electrical in the whole house or specific rooms Assisting in changing electrical services Installing Denver QuietCool fans Commercial Services Licensed electricians also provide services for commercial properties and construction sites. These include new shopping malls, corporate workplaces, banks, and more. Typically, a team is employed for larger commercial and industrial projects – simply because of the amount of work that needs performed. However, a local contractor could also provide their own team to perform these services. The most common electrical services for commercial projects are: Installing wiring for the whole building or re-wiring if needed Repairing outdated electrical systems Locating electrical faults and replacing with new parts Performing an energy survey for the property Installing security cameras and devices More About Denver Electrical Services Electrical projects require attention to detail and a professional eye, so hiring the right electrician is essential. Residential, commercial, and industrial projects can benefit highly from the expertise of a trained and licensed contractor. To get the most out of electrical services, you’ll need to work with a licensed professional with experience working on a myriad of projects. ARK Electric is a long-standing electrical company providing electrical services to the Denver area. Our team has the background and resources needed to complete various residential and commercial projects. From whole building wiring to simple repairs, work with electricians you can trust.
What Exactly Do Electricians Do?
Electricians are a well-known group in our society, but the average person doesn’t necessarily know what these individuals do. While most people understand that electricians interact with electrical systems all around the world, the details of the job can still seem a bit hazy. In this article, we will explore what electricians really do during the average workday to help you better understand what they offer. The Job of an Electrician An electrician is a specialist that works with electrical systems, but what does that really mean? Working with electrical systems can be a difficult and even dangerous task, bringing an interesting balance to the workday. Let’s discuss what this looks like. System Installation The average electrician spends a lot of time installing electrical systems on different properties. These properties might be homes or businesses, and some can be older or newer. System installations tend to go one of two ways. Some properties are brand new and in a current state of development. These new properties have systems installed for the first time, which can require quite a bit of work. Installing new systems can vary in complexity depending on the property and the systems involved. System installations can also apply in a situation where a building needs an upgraded or new system put in. This might be because the original system is old or no longer functioning effectively. In this case, it is necessary to safely remove the old system before installing the new one. System Inspection Electrical systems are a modern marvel, but they are not perfect. Electricians can find themselves inspecting systems to ensure that they are still operating to the best of their ability in a safe way. These inspections can identify a need for repairs or upgrades. Troubleshooting and Repairs When an electrical system begins to act up, people tend to notice. It might be faulty wiring that causes flickering lights—or even a faint burning smell. No matter what, electricians will be brought in to evaluate the situation and make any repairs if they are needed. Safety and Preparedness Safety is a key point of concern in the electrical industry. Faulty electrical systems can cause fires and much worse. For this reason, electricians are constantly evaluating systems not only for minor errors but also for potential disasters. If a system is acting up and has signs of upcoming dangers, electricians might step in with emergency services to ensure that the property remains safe. Conclusion Every day, electricians tend to face a different set of tasks depending on the site that we are working on. Sometimes we spend time wiring homes, and other times we might end up working on a large business complex. It all depends on the needs of the community at that time. If you are looking for a Denver electrician, please don’t hesitate to give us a call to learn how we can serve you and keep your properties safe.
What Are Different Types of Electrician Jobs?
You probably already know the basics of an electrician’s job description. Electricians are tradesmen who are trained to handle electrical components during residential and commercial projects. This might involve installing new components or inspecting, maintaining, and repairing systems that are already in place. What you might not know is that electrician jobs can be further broken down into more specific fields. Let’s explore a few examples. Outside Lineman Outside linemen are electricians who manage electrical power lines. As the title implies, they tend to work outdoors. These workers undergo plenty of safety training, as their tasks often involve working in high places where voltage lines are installed. They may even need to work in adverse conditions, since severe weather is a common cause of power outages. Ultimately, their job is to ensure electricity is properly sent from power plants to consumers in commercial and residential locations. Inside Wireman Inside wiremen are needed to inspect and maintain electrical equipment in a client’s facility. This might involve the following on-site duties: Managing HVAC equipment and similar systems Repairing old wiring Installing alarm systems Installing light fixtures Troubleshooting electrical systems Installing conduit systems Working with power generation equipment People who work as inside wiremen tend to perform their duties in a commercial or industrial setting. Residential Wireman Residential wiremen have similar duties as inside wiremen. They might be called on to perform tasks ranging from installing computer networks and HVAC systems to repairing existing equipment. Some are even put in charge of initiating and planning large projects. The major different between this job and the position of inside wireman is that residential wiremen work in a client’s home, rather than a commercial setting. Installation Technician Installation technicians are experts at installing and setting up systems in new buildings. They may work in either residential or commercial settings. These technicians have specialized knowledge of the equipment being installed. For example, they may work directly for a satellite or cable company. During large-scale projects, wiremen may work alongside installation technicians to complete a task. Experience Levels As is the case in most fields, electricians may earn different titles as they gain experience. Apprentice electricians are fairly new to the job and perform work while supervised by a more experienced electrician. A journeyman electrician is a step up in experience. They can perform their duties without the supervision and may take on more complex jobs. Master electricians have put in the time and effort to earn the highest certification in the field. Unlike journeyman electricians, they may complete some of the most high-level tasks, such as creating blueprints and training new electricians. Finding Professional Electricians for Any Job It doesn’t matter if you’re dealing with a seemingly simple fix or need a full-scale remodel, ARK Electric is a Denver electric company you can rely on. We can manage either commercial or residential projects, and some of our offered services include lighting installation, service changes, and electrical remodeling.